Brazil for Christmas & New Year

Are you dreaming of sunny weather and azure waters for Christmas and New Year? Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Brazil with your family and loved ones. Start in Salvador, where the warm, joyful spirit of Christmas fills the air. Experience the unique blend of religious traditions, lively music, and rich culinary delights. Then, have some down time on unspoiled beaches with crystal-clear waters, snorkelling in natural pools, surfing and savoring local seafood delicacies. Discover Bahia’s rich chocolate heritage. Then, fly to Rio de Janeiro for a spectacular New Year’s celebration on Copacabana Beach. Kickstart the new year with scenic hikes to breathtaking peaks, and unwind on untouched beaches, perfect for tranquility and natural beauty. This immersive tour captures Brazil’s festive spirit, stunning landscapes, and rich culture, creating a memorable holiday experience for every traveler. Stay in cozy boutique hotels. We can tailor this itinerary to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities. This tour has been design taking into consideration the good weather conditions in Brazil during end of December – beginning of January.

13 Days – From £3,900 per person

*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted

Itinerary: Salvador, Boipeba, Barra Grande, Itacare, Ilheus, Rio de Janeiro

Included

Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
Mentioned pousadas with breakfast (Browse More Hotels)
All the excursions mentioned in the itinerary
All transfers by car and boat on a private basis
Entrance & guiding fees to all the mentioned National Parks
All mandatory local taxes

Excluded

Visa, where applicable
International Flights (See Flights to Brazil)
Domestic Flights
Personal Expenses
Insurance
Tips & Gratuities
Meals not mentioned in the description

Flights

International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. Return flights to Brazil start from £800 per person, depending on the connections and time of the year. Fly to Salvador (SSA) for Christmas, continue to Ilheus (IOS) and finish in Rio de Janeiro (GIG) for the New Year’ Eve.

For families and groups (starting with 5 pax), we can book domestic flights in Brazil, during the high season, and if the trip is part of a more complex itinerary. This is to ensure a seamless travel and no complications.

How to Book

Send us an email to check availability, discuss your preferences and get a quote.

This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor the trip up to your plans and book other hotels. You can also combine this trip with other sights in Brazil, like the cosmopolitan Rio de Janeiro, the exciting Amazon rainforest, the fascinating Pantanal, the culture of Bahia or the deep canyons of the south. For more Brazil travel inspiration check these itineraries.

When to Visit

This tour has been design taking into the consideration the good weather conditions to avoid the rain. Bahia and Rio de Janeiro have a perfect sunny and warm weather for the Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

To avoid unpleasant weather surprises, we recommend to check our Brazil Weather Guide to plan your trip in the right season. Click on the month you want to travel in and see the tours which are best for each month of the year.

Day 1 - Christmas Eve in Salvador

Christmas in Salvador has a warm and joyful spirit, mixing religious traditions with the city’s love for music, food, and community gatherings, creating a memorable and culturally rich holiday experience. The city comes alive with festive decorations and Christmas lights. Churches, especially the famous São Francisco Church, hold a special Christmas midnight mass, on the night of the 24^th, known as “Missa do Galo”. The spiritual side of Christmas is infused with Salvador’s lively energy, featuring music, dancing, and festive street performances, such as capoeira shows and Bahian drumming. Enjoy traditional Bahian dishes like moqueca and rabanada. Overnight at La Villa Bahia.

Day 2 - Salvador to Boipeba

After breakfast take a private transfer from Salvador to Boipeba Island, one of Brazil’s hidden gems. Your journey starts with a scenic land transfer to Graciosa (4 hours), where you’ll then board a boat for a 40-minute ride to Boipeba. Welcome to this unspoiled paradise, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene beaches. With its car-free environment and commitment to eco-tourism, Boipeba offers a peaceful escape perfect for those seeking for Christmas relaxation and tranquility. This island getaway is ideal for disconnecting from the fast-paced world and immersing yourself in nature. Overnight at Pousada Santa Clara.

Day 3 - Boipeba Island

Take a private speedboat tour around Ilha de Boipeba, exploring the island’s stunning coastline and local villages. Departing from Boca da Barra Beach, head to the natural pools of Moreré, known for their warm, crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling. Enjoy a stop at a floating bar to taste fresh oysters, shrimp, and fruity caipirinhas. Continue to Moreré Beach, home to a charming fishing village, and then on to the remote Ponta dos Castelhanos Beach at the river Catu’s mouth, boasting rich ecosystems and scenic beauty. For lunch, stop at Cova da Onça to savor fresh seafood. The tour wraps up with a visit to the Rio do Inferno mangrove estuary for an oyster tasting and a breathtaking sunset before returning to your hotel. Overnight at Pousada Santa Clara.

Day 4 - Boipeba to Marau

After breakfast, take a speedboat to Barra Grande in Marau (1 hour). Upon arriving in Boipeba, you will be taken to your hotel (25 min). Marau Peninsula, located on Brazil’s stunning Bahia coastline, is a hidden paradise known for its untouched natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere, and incredible beaches. This tropical retreat offers miles of golden sand beaches, lined with coconut palms and washed by crystal-clear waters, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Immerse yourself in a slower, more peaceful pace of life in the tranquil fishing villages of Barra Grande, where local life is simple and welcoming. Overnight at Villa Kandui.

Day 5 - Marau

Today take a guided ATV tour around the stunning Maraú Peninsula. Start with a visit to the Taipu lighthouse, where you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of the entire peninsula, Camamu Bay, and Lagoa Azul. Next, explore the natural pools of Taipu de Fora, ideal for snorkeling in crystal-clear waters filled with colorful marine life. Then, take a scenic hike along the trail of giant bromeliads, leading to the serene Cassange Lagoon, a freshwater paradise separated from the ocean by a thin strip of sand. Continue to Praia de Algodões, a hidden gem with calm blue waters, extensive sandy shores, and swaying coconut trees. Finish the day at Ponta do Mutá, enjoying a spectacular sunset at one of the beachfront bars. Overnight at Villa Kandui.

Day 6 - Marau to Itacare

After breakfast, transfer to Itacare (1,5 hours), along stunning views of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and lush greenery. Itacare is a lively town known for its surf culture, capoeira, vibrant nightlife, and culinary delights. Upon your arrival, explore by foot 4 interconnecting beaches on your own: Itacarezinho, Engenhoca, Havaizinho, and Praia de Camboinha (6 km). Follow the coast to the deserted beaches. Swim, snorkel, get a tan and try some beach snacks such as tapioca or acaraje! In the late afternoon, go on a guided Hawaiian outrigger canoe and paddle through the calm waters at the mouth of Rio das Contas and appreciate the sunset. Overnight at Barracuda Boutique.

Day 7 - Yoga & Surfing

Early in the morning, according to the tides, meet your experienced surfing instructor and transfer to the stunning Engenhoca Beach. After a safety briefing, prepare for an exciting surfing session with long boards (2 hours). Weather you are a beginner or looking to improve your skills, the instructor will adapt to your needs, guiding you and ensuring you have both fun and a safe experience. After surfing, return to the lodge for a well-deserved breakfast. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. At sunset take a relaxing yoga session on the beach (1,5 hours) with a professional instructor of Hatha vinyasa yoga. Breathe in the salty ocean air as you flow through poses that enhance flexibility and strength, harmonizing your body and mind with the rhythm of the waves. Overnight at Barracuda Boutique.

Day 8 - Itacare to Ilheus

Today transfer to Ilheus by road (2 hours). On the way, stop at Fazenda Yrere and Dengo Origin (Agrícola Condurú) for a chocolate experience. These fazendas are not just farms, they are sustainable businesses committed to making a positive impact on their communities. The tour “From the seedling to a chocolate bar” is a complete experience through the process of the fine cocoa chain where you will taste flavors of Cabruca, such as cocoa fruit, cocoa honey, cocoa beans and, of course, chocolate. Have a delicious lunch at the farm and then depart to Ilheus (45 min). Go for a walk around the old center and admire the historic architecture built during the cacao boom. Jorje Amado, the famous Brazilian writer, was born here. Overnight at Pousada Praia Bela.

Day 9 - New Year's Eve in Rio

Fly to Rio de Janeiro. Celebrating New Year’s Eve in this city is an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant festivities, music, and breathtaking fireworks. Prepare your white outfits, a traditional NYE attire, which symbolizes peace and renewal for the new year. As the sun sets, head to Copacabana Beach, where the main festivities will take place. The beach transforms into a vibrant party zone, featuring live music performances, samba dancers, and energetic crowds. At midnight, the sky above Copacabana Beach bursts into a dazzling display of fireworks. Join in the traditions, such as jumping over seven waves and making wishes for the coming year. Celebrate at one of the beachside parties or local clubs, experience the vibrant energy of Rio’s nightlife. Overnight at Rio Othon Palace.

Day 10 - 1st of January in Rio

January 1st is a day of relaxation and recovery after the vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations. Start your day leisurely, treating yourself to a hearty Brazilian breakfast. Head to Copacabana Beach or Ipanema Beach to unwind, take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Embrace the festive atmosphere of the lively beaches. Later, explore Rio’s beautiful parks, like Parque Lage and the Botanical Garden. Both locations offer serene natural settings. In the evening, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Lapa or Santa Teresa. Enjoy a casual stroll through the streets adorned with colorful murals and colonial architecture. As the sun sets, make your way to Mirante Dona Marta, to catch a breathtaking sunset over the city. Overnight at Rio Othon Palace.

Day 11 - Panoramic Hikes in Rio

Kickstart the new year with an active adventure and go on a guided scenic hike to one of Rio de Janeiro’s breathtaking peaks, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views. Choose from one of the following iconic trails: Pedra da Gávea in the Tijuca Forest that has sweeping views of the coastline and urban skyline; the twin peaks of Morro Dois Irmãos, starting in Vidigal, offering a unique perspective of Ipanema, Leblon, and the mountains; Corcovado, hiking to the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue, perched atop a lush mountain, with 360° views of Rio; Pedra do Telégrafo from Barra de Guaratiba; Pico da Tijuca, offering a lush tropical environment, along with panoramic views of the city below. Overnight at Rio Othon Palace.

Day 12 - Pristine Beaches of Rio

Start your year with a refreshing getaway that rejuvenates your spirit and connects you with nature. Escape the hustle and bustle of Rio and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of untouched beaches, such as Reserva, Prainha, Abricó, and Grumari, located to the west of Rio. Reserva Beach has a peaceful atmosphere, extensive sandy shore ideal for long walks. Prainha Beach is a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts, boasting perfect waves and stunning scenery. Abricó Beach has beautiful hiking trails and stunning cliffs. Explore the scenic paths and enjoy the breathtaking views. Grumari Beach has golden sands and inviting waters, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse in pure nature. Overnight at Rio Othon Palace.

Day 13 - Departure

Today you will leave Rio de Janeiro. You will be taken to the airport for your flight. If your departure is in the evening, we recommend taking a cooking class or a gastronomic tour of Rio during the day. Alternatively, you can extend your stay for a few more days and discover the pristine island of Ilha Grande and the historic town of Paraty, two charming UNESCO Heritage Sites, located in the south of Rio. For more details check our Costa Verde itinerary. You can also fly out to the beautiful park of Iguassu Falls, which is particularly spectacular in January, with an abundant amount of water in the falls.

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